Why change your breast prosthesis?
Breast implants don't last forever. Barring any complications, breast implants have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. But over time, certain factors or complications can make premature replacement necessary. Whether for medical or aesthetic reasons, regular follow-up is essential to monitor their condition and prevent any complications.
Breast prostheses can be replaced for a variety of reasons, including safety, comfort and changing aesthetic needs.
Breast implant replacement due to natural wear and aging
Breast implants undergo natural aging, which can affect their integrity. The materials used in their manufacture deteriorate slowly over time, and signs of degradation, such as rupture or leakage, can sometimes appear after around ten years. Regular examinations, including ultrasound and MRI scans, can detect any anomalies. In the event of rupture or degradation, replacement should be considered. This procedure can be carried out before serious complications arise, thus guaranteeing optimum safety. Women with implants that are more than 10 or 15 years old may consider consulting a surgeon to check their condition and, if necessary, proceed with a replacement.
Change of breast implant for aesthetic and personal reasons
Physical changes may also justify breast form replacement (see also our article on the composition of breast forms). Factors such as age, weight variations or pregnancy can alter the shape or size of the breasts. Implants may no longer correspond to the patient's aesthetic expectations or body profile. Breast implants can also be changed for purely aesthetic reasons, to improve the appearance of the breasts or to adjust their size. For example, some women may wish to have larger or more discreet implants. Replacing implants can also meet new goals in terms of body shape.
Changing breast implants for rare but possible complications: capsulitis
Rare complications can occur after breast implant surgery. One of the most common is shell formation, also known as capsulitis. This is a reaction of the body that creates excess scar tissue around the implant, which can lead to pain, deformity and rigidity of the breast. This can make the implant painful and deformed, and, in some cases, require replacement. If capsulitis becomes particularly troublesome, implant replacement may be an option. Implant rupture, visible folds under the skin or loss of shape can also be signs that it's time to change prostheses. In these situations, it may also be necessary to treat the resulting complications.
Changing breast implants: warning signs
Breast prosthesis change: pain, fragility or deformation as warning signals
Several signs may indicate that a change is inevitable: abnormal pain, breast deformity, or visible signs of implant fragility. Implant rupture is a direct signal that replacement is necessary. If these symptoms appear, it is strongly recommended to consult a surgeon to assess the condition of the implants and decide whether surgery is required. Regular medical follow-up after the initialbreast augmentation surgery allows us to monitor their condition and detect any complications early on. Imaging examinations help to identify these problems at an early stage and avoid serious complications.
Read our article on the new implant to correct sagging breasts.
Breast implant replacement surgery
Breast prosthesis replacement is generally performed through the same incisions used for the first operation. This minimizes scarring and ensures a highly satisfactory aesthetic result. Depending on the patient's aesthetic wishes or medical concerns, it is possible to choose new implants, often of the latest generation, offering advantages such as greater durability and a more natural appearance. If the patient presents complications such as capsulitis, implant replacement is accompanied by revision of the pocket containing the implants. This procedure removes excess scar tissue and treats any complications before fitting the new implants. A breast lift may be added to the operation for optimal results. At the end of the operation, the practitioner sutures the incisions and applies a compression bandage. Convalescence is often easier than for the first operation.
Breast prosthesis replacement Price: how much does it cost?
The price of a breast prosthesis replacement can vary depending on several factors: the type of implants, surgical costs, the complexity of the operation and the options chosen.
See also our article to find out more about the price of breast augmentation by prosthesis.
Change of breast prosthesis reimbursed
Social Security coverage for breast prosthesis replacement may be considered if the operation is carried out for medical reasons, such as implant rupture or complications such as capsulitis. In these cases, partial coverage may be granted. If breast prosthesis replacement is medically justified, a prior agreement with Social Security is required to validate reimbursement. The surgeon must provide a medical file detailing the need for the operation. If the operation is purely cosmetic, it will generally not be reimbursed by the health insurance scheme.
